02/03/2026
The wildebeest migration begins in the southern Serengeti of Tanzania near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and Lake Ndutu typically between December and March. This region serves as the starting point for over a million wildebeest, which gather there for the calving season.
Several ecological and biological factors that enable this animal to continue with migrations
- Seasonal rains and grass growth: The short-grass plains around Lake Ndutu receive reliable seasonal rains that produce fresh, nutrient-rich grasses ideal for calving and for supporting lactating females and rapidly growing calves. As the dry season progresses and forage quality declines, the herd begins to move in search of new pastures.
- Predation pressure and calf survival: The high concentration of predators (lions, hyenas, cheetahs) in the calving grounds increases mortality risk. Once calves are strong enough and forage quality diminishes, the combined pressures of predation and nutritional needs encourage the herd to disperse and continue the migration.
- Water availability: Wildebeest follow patterns of water availability. As local water sources become scarce toward the end of the wet season, the herd migrates toward areas with more reliable water and pasture to sustain large numbers.
- Reproductive timing and population dynamics: The synchronized calving—timed by seasonal cues such as rainfall and day length—creates a large cohort of vulnerable young. After the calving peak, the herd’s movement spreads grazing pressure and reduces competition, supporting the overall population’s health.
- Environmental cues and memory: Wildebeest they have good olfator never in which they have ability to detect smell of rainfall, vegetation greenness) zebra they have good Memory and knowledge of routes and resource locations—to time and direct migration, ensuring access to optimal grazing and water across the annual cycle.
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